In short the USPSTF found moderate evidence that starting daily use of low-dose aspirin (81mg) for this population of 50-59 year olds lowers their risk of colorectal cancer and cardiovascular disease. It found less evidence of 60-69 year olds at high risk of heart disease benefiting from beginning the use of aspirin.The USPSTF did not recommend beginning use of aspirin in people under 50 or over 59 because of lack of evidence.

Talk to your doctor about whether you should be taking aspirin daily. Note that the USPSTF recommendation applies to the age range for which there may be benefits in initiating aspirin use. If you are taking aspirin, you should talk to your doctor about whether to continue or stop taking it as you age. There may be benefits to continuing aspirin use into your later years. Also, keep in mind that if you are taking aspirin you should talk to your doctor before taking ibuprofen, Advil or Motrin, to treat pain or fever.

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As an RN, BSN, I know that another very common side effect of many NSAIDs, including Aspirin is elevations in blood pressure. If you start on an aspirin regimen, keep a check on your blood pressure. Doctors generally don’t warn you of this.